When did you start exploring photography?
For me, photography began as a hobby throughout high school. I began by taking a photography class for the fun of it, with no idea that this would become a hobby of mine in the future.
I actually started filming music videos first with my friends Lijah and Brooklyn for fun and for extra credits in school but then started taking photography a little more seriously in my last year of high school. My photography teacher told me that I had potential and gave me a bunch of dope photography and film artists to look at, and out of all the artists, Dexter Navy really stood out most for me, which is where I draw my inspiration from.
What inspires you?
My family inspires me, I'd say. My family is a huge source of inspiration for me since they use their experiences in areas like education, parenting, music, art, and work ethic. My family's past hardships have also taught me how to be humble and how to live my life the best way possible regardless of what I do, lessons I include in my craft.
How much do you value your creative practice?
I place such a high value on photography, graphic arts, and film because they allow me to just look at a snapshot and modify it to make my thoughts come to life which is crazy to me.
What advice would you give them?
My best advice so far from my experiences is to just go for it if you want to be creative or work in the creative sector. I still feel like I'm new to what I do now and that there is still so much for me to learn. Do whatever makes you happy; don't worry about what others are gonna say in the end, what matters is your own vision. Continue putting in work and hold on tight to your vision.
What’s next?
Definitely more experimenting. I really want to start working with new people as well as continue growing with the people I am already working with. I want to be able to reach out to different artists (graphic design, painters, etc) and have them create whatever they want with my photos.
I'm honoured to be the director of this upcoming film we are currently working on showcasing the South Auckland creative scene and am thrilled to be working with so many other extremely talented creatives.
Keep up with our progress to find out what happens next.
My name is Angela Tangkhapanya, also known as Ange. I am a proud Laotian Southeast Asian representative in South Auckland.
I am a photographer and graphic designer, and I also do some film work on the side. My work focuses on fashion, street photography, and portraiture. I am currently at AUT pursuing a bachelor of arts degree, majoring in criminology and criminal justice.